Our Mission: The Blue Valley School District's mission is unprecedented academic success and unparalleled personal growth for every student.
15020 Metcalf, P.O. Box 23901
Overland Park, KS 66283-0901
Playlist
BVEF Surprises Teachers with Innovative Educator Awards!
“A little overwhelmed and totally surprised…really grateful.” 🥹🎉💛
Last week, the Blue Valley Educational Foundation surprised two of our teachers with Innovative Educator Awards!
Thank you to community donors like Deb Grimes and Ken Selzer for their generosity in making grants like these possible!
#BVTogether #ChampionsOfLearning
BVEF Awards $427,000 in 2023 Classroom Grants!
"Our mission is to enrich educational excellence…and that doesn’t happen without the full community behind us.
Over $427,000 was awarded during Blue Valley Educational Foundation’s Surprise Squad 2023! 🥳💵📚
These classroom and staff member grants are such an amazing support system to help our dedicated educators continue their important work each year.
Check out some of the sights and sounds from this exciting annual event!
#BVTogether
#BVTogether: LES Paraprofessional Larry Jones
“You never wonder…you always know Mr. Jones is the one who will make that connection and make a difference in a child’s life.” 🥹💛📚
On #ParaprofessionalDay, hear the story of Larry Jones — a former public service worker who followed up a 30-year career by making an impact on our Leawood Elementary community.
#BVTogether
Blue Valley School District 2024 Priority Legislative Position 6
Legislative priorities, approved by the Blue Valley Board of Education, are a crucial aspect of advocating for the best interests of our students, educators and the community as a whole. These priorities are carefully chosen issues that we believe require attention and action from local, state or federal legislators. The purpose is to ensure that the policies and laws governing education align with the needs and goals of our district. By establishing legislative priorities, we aim to influence decision-makers to address key challenges, allocate resources effectively, and enact policies that support the success of our students.
The Blue Valley School District supports the continued review of options to enhance certified staff recruitment and retention, including the use of Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) incentives to retain current employees and expand alternate licensure. The district also urges the state of Kansas to continue to meet its responsibility to fully fund KPERS without placing additional financial burden on local school districts or employees. Additionally, the district supports the ongoing efforts in developing alternative teacher certification processes and any legislative actions to achieve an alternative certification system.
These positions are crucial for ensuring the financial security of our educators, as a well-funded KPERS ensures that our educators receive the retirement benefits they deserve. By standing up for proper funding, we are not only supporting our educators but also promoting stability and satisfaction among our staff, which ultimately benefits the quality of education in our schools.
In addition, we are supporting efforts to develop alternative teacher certification processes and advocating for legislative actions to establish an alternative certification system. This is important because it allows us to be proactive in addressing potential staffing challenges and ensures that we can maintain a diverse and qualified teaching staff. By making it easier for new teachers to join our district through alternative certification, we are taking steps to guarantee a high standard of education for students, even in the face of changing educational landscapes.
Learn more at https://www.bluevalleyk12.org/legisla...
Blue Valley School District 2024 Priority Legislative Position 5
Legislative priorities, approved by the Blue Valley Board of Education, are a crucial aspect of advocating for the best interests of our students, educators and the community as a whole. These priorities are carefully chosen issues that we believe require attention and action from local, state or federal legislators. The purpose is to ensure that the policies and laws governing education align with the needs and goals of our district. By establishing legislative priorities, we aim to influence decision-makers to address key challenges, allocate resources effectively, and enact policies that support the success of our students.
The Blue Valley School District supports utilizing the highest of current year or two previous years' count for school funding purposes.
By considering the highest enrollment count from either the current year or the two previous years, the school district can experience more stable and predictable funding.
This approach helps to mitigate fluctuations in enrollment by providing a consistent financial foundation for the districts. It helps the district plan for educational resources and teacher salaries, with greater certainty. Just as a family wants to ensure they can provide a stable and supportive environment for their children, the school district aims to offer a consistent and high-quality education to its students by having a dependable funding source that considers past enrollment levels.
Learn more about the Blue Valley's 2024 Priority Legislative Positions at www.bluevalleyk12.org/Legislative
Superintendent's Community Message (March 6, 2024)
Dr. Tonya Merrigan delivers a message to students, staff and community members as the third quarter of the 2023-24 school year comes to a close!
#BVTogether
Blue Valley School District 2024 Priority Legislative Position 4
Legislative priorities, approved by the Blue Valley Board of Education, are a crucial aspect of advocating for the best interests of our students, educators and the community as a whole. These priorities are carefully chosen issues that we believe require attention and action from local, state or federal legislators. The purpose is to ensure that the policies and laws governing education align with the needs and goals of our district. By establishing legislative priorities, we aim to influence decision-makers to address key challenges, allocate resources effectively, and enact policies that support the success of our students.
The Blue Valley School District supports an expansion of community-based behavioral and mental health initiatives. Further, the Blue Valley School District supports expanding the criteria for the statewide school-based mental health grants to include providers outside of the County Health Departments who reside in the school buildings.
The district's mental health providers, embedded in Blue Valley schools, play a vital role in offering mental health support that directly benefits our students and families. Currently, mental health professionals in our schools do not qualify for statewide school-based mental health grants because these mental health professionals are associated with a provider who does not reside within the county’s health department. Including outside providers in the criteria for statewide school-based mental health grants would enable the district to redirect its allocated funds toward other important initiatives.
Learn more at bluevalleyk12.org/legislative
Blue Valley School District 2024 Priority Legislative Position 3
Legislative priorities, approved by the Blue Valley Board of Education, are a crucial aspect of advocating for the best interests of our students, educators and the community as a whole. These priorities are carefully chosen issues that we believe require attention and action from local, state or federal legislators. The purpose is to ensure that the policies and laws governing education align with the needs and goals of our district. By establishing legislative priorities, we aim to influence decision-makers to address key challenges, allocate resources effectively, and enact policies that support the success of our students.
The Blue Valley School District supports modifying the current school finance system to include poverty factors and additional indicators such as ELL (English Language Learners), student academic performance data, attendance data, foster care, juvenile justice and homelessness to meet the needs of these underserved student populations.
Our current funding formula rightly supports students from low-income families, designating them as at-risk and providing additional funding to address their educational challenges. To further improve the system, we propose expanding the criteria to include additional indicators such as English Language Learners, academic performance, attendance, foster care, juvenile justice, and homelessness. Broadening the at-risk definition ensures that districts receive additional funding so districts can allocate resources more effectively, addressing a wider range of factors that impact student success. This approach aligns with our commitment to ensuring all students have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Learn more at https://www.bluevalleyk12.org/Legislative
Blue Valley School District 2024 Priority Legislative Position 2
Legislative priorities, approved by the Blue Valley Board of Education, are a crucial aspect of advocating for the best interests of our students, educators and the community as a whole. These priorities are carefully chosen issues that we believe require attention and action from local, state or federal legislators. The purpose is to ensure that the policies and laws governing education align with the needs and goals of our district. By establishing legislative priorities, we aim to influence decision-makers to address key challenges, allocate resources effectively, and enact policies that support the success of our students.
The Blue Valley School District opposes public funding of private schools, including the offering of public tax credits to taxpayers for tuition payments to private schools that do not comply with the same standards and requirements of public school districts.
This stance is rooted in the commitment to uphold consistent standards and requirements across all educational institutions. Public schools operate under specific guidelines that ensure accountability, quality education, and equal opportunities for all students. Channeling public funds toward private schools that may not adhere to the same standards could compromise the overall integrity of our education system. By opposing such initiatives, the district aims to safeguard the principles of fairness, transparency, and equal access to quality education for every student within the public school system.
Learn more at www.bluevalleyk12.org/legislative
2024 Milken Educator Awards: BVW's Alex Lahasky
Go behind-the-scenes at Blue Valley West yesterday, as social studies teacher Alex Lahasky was honored as a 2024 Milken Educator Awards recipient! 🥳🏆❤️
Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Alex. We are so incredibly proud to have you as a member of our #BVTogether family!
#ChampionsOfLearning
Blue Valley School District 2024 Priority Legislative Position 1
Legislative priorities, approved by the Blue Valley Board of Education, are a crucial aspect of advocating for the best interests of our students, educators and the community as a whole. These priorities are carefully chosen issues that we believe require attention and action from local, state or federal legislators. The purpose is to ensure that the policies and laws governing education align with the needs and goals of our district. By establishing legislative priorities, we aim to influence decision-makers to address key challenges, allocate resources effectively, and enact policies that support the success of our students
The Blue Valley School District supports funding the excess cost of special education services at the statutory 92 percent rate.
Every year, our district faces a significant financial challenge as we transfer as much as $15 million from the fund used to pay educators and cover operational expenses. This money is redirected to cover special education excess costs that the state does not fully fund at the statutory 92% rate and negatively impacts our ability to attract and retain qualified educators.
Blue Valley School District 2024 Priority Legislative Positions
https://www.bluevalleyk12.org/legislative
Fund Special Education -
The Blue Valley School District supports funding the excess cost of special education services at the statutory 92 percent rate.
Oppose Tax Credits and Vouchers for Private Schools -
The Blue Valley School District opposes public funding of private schools, including the offering of public tax credits to taxpayers for tuition payments to private schools that do not comply with the same standards and requirements of public school districts.
Apply At-Risk Funding to Defined Student Measures-
The Blue Valley School District supports modifying the current school finance system to include poverty factors and additional indicators such as ELL (English Language Learners), student academic performance data, attendance data, foster care, juvenile justice and homelessness to meet the needs of these underserved student populations.
Enhance Student Mental Health-
The Blue Valley School District supports an expansion of community-based behavioral and mental health initiatives. Further, the Blue Valley School District supports expanding the criteria for the statewide school-based mental health grants to include providers outside of the County
Health Departments who reside in the school buildings.
Funding on Current Year or Largest of Two Previous Years-
The Blue Valley School District supports utilizing the highest of current year or two previous years' count for school funding purposes.
Recruitment, Retention, and Alternative Teacher Certification-
The Blue Valley School District supports the continued review of options to enhance certified staff recruitment and retention, including the use of Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) incentives to retain current employees and expand alternate licensure. Urges the state of Kansas to continue to meet its responsibility to fully fund KPERS without placing additional financial burden on local school districts or employees. Additionally, the district supports the ongoing efforts in developing alternative teacher certification processes and any legislative actions to achieve an alternative certification system.
More information can be found at https://www.bluevalleyk12.org/legislative
Blue Valley's Chinese Immersion Program
Learn more about the Chinese Immersion program for incoming kindergarten students that broadens horizons, enhances cognitive skills and teaches second language skills. A virtual information session is set for Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. Register online and visit www.bluevalleyk12.org/immersion for more information.
BV Squads Visit Union Station for #BOTBKC!
Check out the celebration at Union Station Kansas City yesterday as three of our schools were part of the Burns & McDonnell STEM #BattleOfTheBrains Top 20 ceremony! 🧪📊🏆
As finalists, each BV squad received a $2,500 grant for their school. Congratulations to the teams from Timber Creek Elementary, Prairie Star Elementary and Oxford Middle!
#ChampionsOfLearning #BVTogtether
Behind-the-Scenes: Blue Valley's Fire Science Program
Go behind-the-scenes with Blue Valley’s Fire Science program, a Career Ready course that partners with OPFD and Johnson County Community College! 🔥🚒
Over the course four semesters, students get real-world experience, work with firefighting professionals and learn skills to prepare for firefighter certification exams.
For more information, visit: bit.ly/BVFireScience
#ChampionsOfLearning
Dr. Merrigan's Community Message (December 15, 2023)
Dr. Tonya Merrigan sends a message to students, staff members and families across Blue Valley as we wrap up the semester!
#BVTogether #ChampionsOfLearning
Three BV Schools Named #BOTBKC Top 20 Finalists!
This morning, teams from Timber Creek Elementary, Oxford Middle and Prairie Star Elementary were surprised as #BOTBKC Top 20 finalists! 🎉🧪🧬🔬
The competition, which is hosted by Burns & McDonnell STEM, had over 740 entries this year, with teams competing for the top prize of a $50,000 STEM grant and their idea being brought to life as an exhibit at Science City. All finalists will earn varying levels of grants based on where they finish, with the announcement being made January 23 at Union Station Kansas City.
We are so incredibly proud of the students, staff members and schools for their hard work and dedication to being #ChampionsOfLearning!
BVSW Hosts 2023 Simone Awards
"Please welcome the 41st annual Simone winner....your quarterback, Dylan Dunn."
This morning, Blue Valley Southwest had the honor of hosting the prestigious Thomas A. Simone Awards, with the Timberwolves' QB Dylan Dunn being surprised with the award for most outstanding high school player in the greater KC metro area. 🏈🏆💚
BVSW senior wide receiver Alex Parks was also recognized during the ceremony for winning the 2023 Otis Taylor Award, given to the top WR/TE in the area.
We are so proud of Dylan, Alex and all of the coaches and teammates that were part of such a special season!
#BVTogether #ProtectThePack
2023 Friends of Education: The University of Kansas Health System Athletic Trainers
“The amount of time and care and effort they put in each day…to be recognized is just a great honor for them.”
We’re proud to celebrate The University of Kansas Health System Athletic Trainers as one of our 2023 Friends of Education! 🏈⚾️🏀🥳💙
Thank you to these dedicated professionals for their support of Blue Valley’s student-athletes, coaches and athletic programs.
#BVTogether
Pleasant Ridge 8th Grader Embraces Football Challenge
“Seeing Jack out on the field and in that uniform has been really moving for us as parents…”
After a heart condition kept Jack Tomas out of football for most of his life, his 8th grade year at Pleasant Ridge provided a chance to finally compete. 🏈💜🐶
Hear how Jack overcame the odds to strive as a kicker and how the Bulldogs’ coach went the extra mile to give him the opportunity.
#BVTogether
#SunriseShoutouts Program Builds Community at SPE
“For the kids to learn and be able to grow academically, they need to feel safe and loved…this is just setting the foundation.” ✏️✉️🥹
See how a special kindness program at Sunrise Point Elementary has engaged groups around the school and helped build a sense of community among the Patriots’ students and staff members.
#BVTogether
2023 Blue Valley District Marching Band Festival
“It’s really amazing to be able to perform for a loving community of people who care about this activity…it’s very meaningful to us.”
Check out some of the sights and sounds from our district’s 41st annual Marching Band Festival! 🎼🥁🎺🎹
Although the high schools normally compete against one another, Monday night’s showcase was all about playing for the love of music. We loved seeing the support these groups showed each other throughout the night!
#BVTogether
Aspen Grove Hosts Official Dedication Ceremony!
“We’re so excited to be able to gather together today to pause, recognize and honor everyone who had a hand in it…”
Check out some of the sights and sounds from Aspen Grove Elementary’s official dedication ceremony last week! 🦊🎉🌳
We were so proud to see the community come out to support our newest elementary school!
#BVTogether
BV Supports Mental Health First Aid Training
“This is what so many of our staff and our teachers have been looking for because they so genuinely want to be supportive.” 🧠🩺💙
In response to growing demands for mental health support, our district has embraced Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) a program that equips individuals to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders.
The initiative is set to train approximately 900 staff members in lifesaving mental health support techniques. Programs like this are made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Blue Valley Educational Foundation and generous donors throughout the community.
For more information on the program and related staff training, visit: tinyurl.com/BVMHFA23
#BVTogether
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